Atalanta's Lookman Expresses Disappointment Over Gasperini's Comments

Synopsis

Ademola Lookman, forward for Atalanta, responds to Gian Piero Gasperini's 'deeply disrespectful' remarks following their UEFA Champions League exit. Lookman emphasizes his commitment to the team and the hurt caused by being singled out amidst his achievements.

Key Takeaways

Lookman responds to Gasperini's harsh comments.
He emphasizes the hard work he contributes to Atalanta.
Lookman reflects on his recent achievements, including the African Player of the Year award.
He recalls the team's struggle during the knockout playoffs.
Lookman expresses disappointment over the penalty incident.

Bergamo, Feb 19 (NationPress) Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has issued a statement addressing his head coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s deeply disrespectful remarks following the reigning Europa League champions' exit from the UEFA Champions League knockout playoffs after a 2-5 aggregate defeat to Club Brugge.

Entering the match after a 1-2 loss in the first leg, Atalanta struggled defensively, conceding three goals in the first half. Lookman, who came on as a substitute in the second half, quickly made an impact by scoring in the 46th minute, narrowing the deficit to three goals.

However, shortly after, Atalanta was awarded a penalty, but Lookman’s shot was saved by Simon Mignolet.

When questioned about this situation, the Italian coach remarked that Lookman is “one of the worst penalty takers” he has ever encountered, adding that Lookman took the ball out of enthusiasm after scoring—a gesture he did not appreciate.

In response, Lookman took to Instagram to express his feelings. “It saddens me on a day like this to have to write this statement—especially considering what we have accomplished together as a team and as a city.

“Being singled out in this manner is not only painful but feels profoundly disrespectful, particularly given the tremendous effort and dedication I consistently apply to support this club and the wonderful fans of Bergamo,” Lookman stated.

The head coach's comments can indeed be seen as severe, especially in light of the Nigerian striker's outstanding performance. Lookman was recently awarded the African Player of the Year, following in the footsteps of his compatriot Victor Osimhen, who won the accolade in 2023. This achievement marks the first time since Nwankwo Kanu (1996) and Victor Ikpeba (1997) that two Nigerians have consecutively received this honor.

Lookman’s exceptional form has made Atalanta a contender for the Serie A title and secured them a UEFA Europa League trophy win in 2023, the club's first major silverware in 61 years.

He scored a hat-trick in the final, making Atalanta the only team in the 2023-24 season to defeat the German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, showcasing one of the most remarkable final performances in European football history.

Lookman also played a pivotal role for Nigeria in reaching the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, where they were defeated by the host nation. His performances, including three goals, earned him a spot in the Team of the Tournament.

“In truth, I have faced numerous challenging moments during my time here—most of which I have kept to myself because I believe the team should always be prioritized. This makes the events of last night even more painful.

“Along with our amazing fans, we as a team share in the disappointment of last night's result. During the match, the designated penalty taker asked me to take the penalty; to support my teammates, I took on that responsibility. Life is about overcoming challenges and transforming pain into strength, which I will continue to do,” Lookman concluded.